Motorcycles are a popular form of transportation. No, they’re not as popular as standard four-wheel vehicles, but some people use them as their primary rides. People talk a great deal about the reliability of cars, but some may wonder how long you can expect a motorcycle to last when you buy one. Naturally, this will differ based on the model, but the same is true for cars and other vehicles. It’s important to understand the reliability of this form of travel before going to any motorcycle dealerships.

How long should a motorcycle last?

Many people make the decision to buy a motorcycle. However, some may make the mistake of thinking that even the best motorcycles can last as long as a car. Sadly, this is not the case. According to Saint USA, motorcycle riders should expect their bikes to last somewhere between 20,000 and about 100,000 miles in total. 

So, why is there such a disparity in the number of miles people can expect when they buy a motorcycle? The main reason is that bikes of different sizes have different life spans. According to reports, small options like sport or dirt bikes will last around 20,000 – 30,000 miles. However, bigger options like cruisers and touring bikes can last much longer. 

Despite the mileage expectation, a few things can make a difference. In particular, as with cars, well-maintained motorcycles can last longer after you buy them. This means changing the oil and various filters will help a motorcycle last longer. Properly storing the bike is also essential. Still, most bikes won’t last anywhere near as long as the majority of cars. 

It’s also important to point out that miles on a motorcycle differ from miles on a car. This difference exists because people usually drive motorcycles less than cars. Because of this, you could have a significantly older bike with fewer miles than you may assume. It’s for this reason that you should do your research when you decide to buy a motorcycle.

Why don’t you get as many miles when you buy a motorcycle?

There are a few reasons you get fewer miles when you buy a motorcycle than you would from a car. The most significant reason is the difference in the sizes of various components. For example, the engine is much smaller than what you’d find in a car. This means it is more likely to wear out before a larger unit would. Additionally, the increased vibration from a motorcycle can impact its lifespan. 

It’s also important to point out that certain behaviors after you buy a motorcycle will decrease its life span. For example, turning over a motorcycle, either because of an accident or other reasons, is extremely common. Naturally, the bike falling for any reason can damage it.